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Objectively measured physical activity among US cancer survivors: considerations by weight status

Journal of Cancer Survivorship volume 7, pages 493–499 (2013)Cite this article

Abstract

Purpose

We have a limited understanding of the objectively determined physical activity levels of cancer survivors at the population level. Further, we have even less of an understanding of this behavior by weight status (i.e., normal weight, overweight, and obese). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe accelerometer-assessed physical activity levels among US cancer survivors and to do so across weight status.

Methods

Data from the 2003–2006 NHANES was used. One hundred twenty-six adult cancer survivors wore an accelerometer for ≥4 days, with weight status determined from measured body mass index.

Results

Approximately 13 % of cancer survivors were sufficiently active (i.e., met current physical activity guidelines). Results were not significant for light-intensity physical activity; however, results showed that obese cancer survivors engaged in 47 % less MVPA than normal weight cancer survivors (rate ratio = 0.53; 95 % CI, 0.29–0.93).

Conclusion

Most adult cancer survivors are insufficiently active and obese cancer survivors engage in less MVPA than their counterparts.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Health care professionals are encouraged to increase cancer survivors’ awareness of the minimum levels of MVPA needed for optimal health, particularly among obese cancer survivors. Additionally, cancer survivors should also be informed of the positive health outcomes associated with light-intensity physical activity.

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Author information

Affiliations

  1. Department of Exercise Science, Donna and Allan Lansing School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bellarmine University, Louisville, KY, 40205, USA

    Paul D. Loprinzi

  2. Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Sangmyung University, Seoul, South Korea

    Hyo Lee

  3. Program in Exercise and Sport Science, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA

    Bradley J. Cardinal

Authors
  1. Paul D. Loprinzi
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  2. Hyo Lee
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  3. Bradley J. Cardinal
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Paul D. Loprinzi.

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Loprinzi, P.D., Lee, H. & Cardinal, B.J. Objectively measured physical activity among US cancer survivors: considerations by weight status. J Cancer Surviv 7, 493–499 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-013-0293-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-013-0293-7

Keywords

  • Accelerometry
  • Cancer
  • Epidemiology
  • Exercise
  • Physical activity
  • Weight control